Aviva Premiership club Northampton have sacked their rugby director Jim Mallinder after 10 years in charge at Franklin’s Gardens.
The will now embark on a global search in their quest for a replacement
Here, RUCK looks at eight possible candidates who could be in the frame to replace him.
1. STUART LANCASTER
To his credit, Stuart Lancaster has re-established himself as a top coach since joining Leinster at the beginning of last season. Lancaster resigned as national team boss in November 2015 following a miserable World Cup campaign when England failed to survive the pool stage.
2. DEAN RICHARDS
Richards has done an outstanding job at the Falcons and would definitely steady the ship at Franklin’s Gardens. There is the question of whether Richards would consider leaving Newcastle, who he has transformed into genuine Top 6 contenders in the last 12 months.
3. MIKE FORD
Ex-Bath boss Ford also had a lengthy spell as England defence coach, in addition to heading up the coaching team at French heavyweights Toulon. He is currently coaching in the United States but may be attracted back by the Saints post.